kilimanjaro tour 7

6 DAYS: MACHAME ROUTE

MACHAME ROUTE tour

Overview

Machame also known as the Whiskey Route is one of the most popular routes on Kilimanjaro but is also considered a difficult route. We would recommend it to experienced climbers that have already been acclimatized before and physically fit.

Starting in the rainforest at 1850 meters point, the trail goes through all the climate zones of Kilimanjaro, providing you a good acclimatization due to smooth elevation gain combined with the daily changing equatorial wonderful landscapes. Although it is important to note that some parts of this route can be quite steep.

In case you are planning to climb in rainy season (November, April and May), the path can be eroded on Machame, which will make your hike even more difficult.

Trekking From Machame Gates To Machame Camp

Your guide and mountain support team will arrive at your hotel in the morning to meet you and after a brief briefing you will be transferred by vehicle to Machame Gate (1800m) the entrance to Kilimanjaro National Park.

After going through the simple process of getting a climbing permit and registering with the search and rescue service the group started the journey to Machame Camp (3010m). Since the trekking route is through tropical rainforests (places with a high chance of rain in the tropics) it is recommended to bring extra clothing as well as a raincoat.

Today will be your first day at this altitude so caution is advised. Follow the instructions from this point.

Avoid alcohol and caffeine.
Drink 4 liters of bottled water every day.
Take Diamox tablets. It helps reduce the symptoms of altitude sickness.

Most climbers take Diamox in the morning before starting the climb to reduce discomfort associated with altitude sickness. If you have allergies you are advised to see a doctor before travelling.

You may experience discomfort associated with high altitude acclimatization at night. Due to the reduced breathing pattern the body receives less oxygen than during the day. Depending on the altitude you may feel nauseous or have a headache. Pay attention to your body and inform your guide if you start to experience symptoms of altitude sickness.

Change in Elevation:

Machame Gate (1,800 m)
Machame Camp (3,010 m)
Hiking distance: 5 km
Hiking time: 5 to 6 hours

Trekking From Machame Camp To Shira Camp

After breakfast start the trek to Shira camp (3845m) the second high altitude camp. Today you will emerge from the rainforest and get your first glimpse of the stunning landscape of the Shira Plateau that lies before you.

Although it is not a very physically demanding trip you can feel the change in altitude so keep in mind that taking care of your body and choosing the right pace is very important for a good trip. Upon arrival at the camp after lunch and rest the group will move to the 300 meter acclimatization hike at the Lava Tower camp. After returning to Camp Shira a hot dinner will be served.

Note: The acclimatization hike is an easy ride that gains some altitude to speed up the acclimatization process. Climbing should be taken seriously for height adjustment. This will increase your chances of successfully climbing Kilimanjaro and help protect you from the effects of altitude sickness.

Trekking from Machame Camp to Shira Camp.

Change in Elevation:

Machame Camp (3,010 m)
Shira Camp (3,845 m)
Hiking distance: 5 km
Hiking time: 4 to 5 hours

Acclimatization hike.

Change in Elevation:

Shira Camp (3,845 m)
Destination point en route to Lava Tower (4,120 m)
Hiking distance: 2 km
Hiking time: 1 to 2 hours

Trekking From Shira Camp To The Lava Tower And Descent To Barranco Camp

After breakfast you will depart from Shira Camp (3845m) and start the trek towards the highlight of the route: Lava Tower (4630m). This section of the trail has many ascents and descents ending at the camp at an altitude of over 4600m. It may be difficult and you may feel uncomfortable but you need to spend at least 1-2 hours to acclimatize to the altitude successfully so have lunch here.

Then you will descend to Barranco Camp (3960m). Here you will find the Barranco Walls famous for both their size and steepness! The next day you will climb it but dont worry: the route is very easy.

Note: If one or more participants are unwell the group may avoid passing the volcano tower and the new route may be adjusted to suit the route for the porters. In this case you will not reach the height of 4630 meters but only climb to a maximum height of 4400 meters.

Change in Elevation:

Shira Camp (3,845 m)
Lava Tower (4,630 m)
Barranco Camp (3,960 m)
Hiking distance: 11 km
Hiking time: 6 to 8 hours

Trekking From Barranco Camp To Barafu Camp

Wake up early have breakfast and start climbing the walls of Barranco. (It is advisable to leave camp early to avoid crowding with other groups.) Climbing the canyon wall is not difficult and only takes about an hour.

After the climb you can rest and take photos in front of Kibo Volcano. You will then begin a more difficult walk to Kalanga Camp with several climbs and descents. But dont worry our tour guides are experts in this field.

Choose the pace that works best for your team. Hot lunch will be provided on arrival at camp. In a few hours you will complete the climb to Barafu Camp (4640 m) where you will enjoy a hot dinner. It is best to rest and sleep the whole day before climbing the summit in the evening.

Change in Elevation:

Barranco Camp (3,960 m)
Barafu Camp (4,640 m)
Hiking distance: 11 km
Hiking time: 8 to 10 hours

Ascent To Uhuru Peak And Descent To Millennium Camp

Depart Barafu Camp (4640m) overnight and drive to the summit of Kilimanjaro: Uhuru Peak (5895m). Now the art of ascension is essentially simple; But the hardest part is the height. Each climbing pair will receive a personal climbing guide to monitor your mental and physical condition.

After successfully climbing Uhuru Peak you can descend to the nearest glacier if you wish. Then return to Barafu Camp rest for 2 hours and descent to Millennium Camp (3820m).

Note: Don’t forget that 90% of all accidents occur during the descent, including all broken arms and legs.Please take care of your feet as the nails are more prone to injury.

Change in Elevation:

Barafu Camp (4,640 m)
Uhuru Peak (5,895 m)
Millennium Camp (3,820 m)
Hiking distance: 15 km
Hiking time: 8 to 12 hours

Descent From Millennium Camp To Mweka Gate

The camp is located in a tropical rain forest. When you wake up you will feel the relief of the altitude loss and the satisfaction of reaching the top. After a hot breakfast you exit the park to Mweka Gate (1650m).

After you descend the whole group gathers to congratulate you after which you have the opportunity to share your thoughts about the climb in the guest book. Finally we will give you your souvenir in our office and return you to the hotel.

Change in Elevation:

Millennium Camp (3,820 m)
Mweka Gate (1,650 m)
Hiking distance: 12 km
Hiking time: 4 to 5 hours
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Our guides

safari Africa Harry

Harry

Professional Guide
Patty Manyara Ombeni

Ombeni

Professional Guide
Serenguet Ayanna

Ayanna

Professional Guide
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8 day Mt Kilimanjaro Trek My mother and I completed the 8 day trek to Uhuru Peak of Mt Kilimanjaro. Can’t say enough amazing things about our experience: Our guides (Florian and Loma) were incredibly prepared, professional, and knowledgeable about everything trek-related. The porters and chef were extremely kind and felt more like family than strangers by the end of our camp and trek journey. Our belongings were safe and handled with care. The food was prepared with love and tasted delicious (and even accommodated all dietary restrictions).. They met us where we were at each and every morning and prepared us for everything ahead each night. Both my mother and I were able to peak with no complications and get down the mountain without any injuries or complications to note. There was never a question about safety while camping, hiking, or peaking. They handled all transportation from the airport, to the national park, and back to our hotel accommodations. This company truly went above and beyond for us. This review is the least I could do to encourage anyone to book a tour with them.
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Sherpa49411700337
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I and my daughter completed the Lemosho trek to Mt Kilimanjaro. The team of support for this 8 day trek was simply incredible . The team was superb, we felt loved, encouraged and supported the whole journey. We have learned so much , and have grown in courage and strength. This was the best experience of our lives.
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rev dr laura Tanyi-Remarck
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Memories for lifetime I was very sceptic as no much information was available about KIWARE on the open domain however they are one of the few who was willing to offer a itinerary as per my requirements (as I was a solo traveler from India ) . However spoke to Mr Elia , special mention to him as he was the one who was constantly in touch with me and made the itinerary exactly what I needed . With lots in mind I reached Arusha airport and things changed from there . Everything was spot on ….and happened exactly what they promised/mentioned . They received me and put me up at a hotel which was absolutely amazing. The nxt day the trip started and what a trip it was…one of the most memorable trip of my life . I have to mention to the driver /guide Samuel L Laizer, amazing guide , amazing driver an amazing human and now a very good friend . His ever smiling face made the long days of game spotting quite a fun. The famous BIG FIVE was spotted on the very first day itself and the second day was fun again with additional treat as we were able to spot few Rhinos (from quite a distance) . The accommodation I opted for was of Camping ( would recommend everyone to try it …gives a rustic and authentic experience) . We were provided with all 3 meals (absolutely amazing) Water bottle on the trip Nevertheless the 3 days were absolutely amazing and would definitely recommend everyone to trust and go ahead with KIWARE adventures. I made memories of life and HAVE LEFT A PIECE OF ME BACK THEIR !! PS- anyone needs the full itinerary or any specific input about the trip can reach me at rupakneogi1317@gmail.com
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The best experience I have had It has been the best experience I have ever had. I found the management, the places and the animals. Dances and cultures. It was wonderful
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Luis Antonio
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A great trip to Tanzania I went on a great safari with my family. I recommend it for everyone. It is an experience that I would live again. I recommendojaras with kiware
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Emmanuel g
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INCREDIBLE EXPERIENCE The safari was incredible, in the middle of the savanna, we connected with nature, I learned a lot being here, 100% recommended
Uriel T
Uriel T
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Safari in Tanzania The safari was very fun, I went with my family, our guide Ombeni was very knowledgeable, he explained everything to us very well, everything was very healthy, I recommend this safari
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Ariel Alex N

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